alwaysyummy, thanks for sharing your story.. bihira ang nag "let go" ng emotion and in doing that you not only save yourself but let others learn from it too.
It is through personal experience we came out stronger. The important thing here is learn from it but don't curse your dad, he is still your dad. Just like they said be the best dad to your daughter I'm sure that what your dad want to be for himself too. I have a very strict dad too when I was a grown-up, that time there is no way for me to understand him. But I am now a father and now somewhat could relate to most of his wisdom before. Could be the way he communicates his feeling and thought is something that bother you but the message he is trying to impart might says otherwise. Good luck and God Bless you.